Best Military Antiques & Collectibles Books of 2025

This reprint of the Simple Sabotage Field Manual offers readers a glimpse into the wartime tactics employed by the United States Office of Strategic Services. Originally published in 1944, the booklet contains instructions for civilians to inflict sabotage through non-violent means, with headings that correspond to specific audiences. The book is a fascinating historical artifact, shedding light on the strategies employed during World War Two to disrupt enemy efforts. This book is a must-read for military history enthusiasts and those interested in wartime tactics.

If you are interested in coin collecting but don't know where to start, "Coin Collecting For Beginners" is the ultimate guide for you. This book covers everything from the basics of coin collection to worldwide sources of coins, how to document your collection, and even how to monetize your hobby. The author provides practical steps on how to have a collection at home, including the required toolkit and how to handle, clean, store, and protect coins. The book also offers tips on avoiding common mistakes when buying and handling coins. Overall, "Coin Collecting For Beginners" is an informative and comprehensive guide that can help turn this fun hobby into a profitable business.

The book "Hang Tough: The WWII Letters and Artifacts of Major Dick Winters" is a captivating collection of letters and artifacts that offer a unique insight into the life of Major Dick Winters, the commander of the Band of Brothers. The book features previously unpublished diary entries, military reports, postwar reminiscences, private photos, personal artifacts, and rich historical context that immerses readers in the dramatic experiences of the 1940s. The lost art of letter writing brings the immediacy and honesty of Winters's observations that take us beyond the traditional accounts of the fabled 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment's Easy Company. Overall, this book is a deeply intimate, timely reflection on a rising officer and the philosophies that molded him into a hero among heroes.

The Model 1911 and Model 1911A1 Military and Commercial Pistols, 3rd Edition, is a comprehensive guide for collectors and enthusiasts of antique firearms. With 566 pages, 84 tables, and 678 photos and drawings, this book provides detailed descriptions of parts and markings, including serial numbers and manufacturer information for each model. The book also includes a serial number listing organized by shipping date, making it easy to track when a pistol was manufactured and shipped. The book's unique feature is its in-depth examination of markings on receivers, slides, and barrels, which is crucial for authenticating the Model 1911/Model1911A1. Overall, this book is a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts of antique firearms.

The Third Reich P.38s is a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts interested in German WWII pistols. This comprehensive guide covers every P.38 variation manufactured by Walther, Mauser, and Spreewerks, providing serial number ranges, descriptions, and hundreds of detailed photographs. The author, James Gentile, has a vast collection of P.38s, and the editor, Thomas Whiteman, has added more information on holsters and markings. The book is well-written and informative, making it an excellent reference guide for anyone interested in learning more about the P.38 and its role in history.

Third Reich Lugers is an indispensable reference for collectors of WWII Luger pistols. The book provides detailed descriptions and photos of every Mauser and Krieghoff variation issued in Germany during the war, including distinguishing characteristics of each variation. It also includes tips to identify guns based on markings and other detailed characteristics, making it an essential reference for both novices and experienced collectors. The book's author, Tom Whiteman, is a leading authority on collectible WWII weapons, and this book is a testament to his knowledge and expertise. Overall, Third Reich Lugers is a must-have for anyone interested in WWII collectibles and is a smart investment for collectors.

Arrowpoints, Spearheads, & Knives of Prehistoric Times by Thomas Wilson is a fascinating book for anyone interested in outdoor skills, ancient weapons, or anthropology. The book provides a comprehensive history of the tools and weapons used by our prehistoric ancestors to survive. Wilson explains the materials used to craft these tools, how and where they were manufactured, and the purposes for which they were used. The book is lavishly illustrated with hundreds of photographs and drawings, including microscopic details of the flint and other stones from which the tools were crafted. Overall, this book is a rare and insightful look into mankind's not-so-distant past.

The Essential M1 Garand by Jim Thompson is a comprehensive and heavily illustrated guide for both shooters and collectors. The book covers the complete history of the M1 Garand, including its development, look, feel and function. It goes beyond industrial histories to include background on manufacturers, ammunition and accuracy. The book is filled with detailed photo sections, updated troubleshooting charts and a section on reloading. Collectors will benefit from an extensive parts compendium. The final part of the book is dedicated to the enjoyment and maintenance of the M1. Overall, a must-have guide for anyone interested in the M1 Garand.

Surplus Military & Classic Firearms #91 is a special edition that covers the history of guns and guns of war, including interesting stories behind them. This issue features a wide range of firearms, from black-powder trapdoor carbines to Europe’s 1911 to the weapons of The Man from U.N.C.L.E. The book also delves into the tactics and weapons of the Panzerknackers, men who fought against tanks, and the pioneers who fired guns from airplanes. The book offers a unique perspective on firearms and their history, making it an interesting read for firearm collectors and enthusiasts.

The Standard Catalog of Military Firearms, 9th Edition is an essential guide for military firearm collectors and enthusiasts. Phillip Peterson, a firearms dealer and expert in military history, provides updated pricing and identification for over 2,000 models of military firearms manufactured since 1870. The book includes advice on identification and over 1,700 photos, making it a valuable resource for buyers, sellers, traders, and collectors. The inclusion of a special 16-page color section featuring rare and collectible pieces from recent U.S. auctions makes this edition unique. Overall, the Standard Catalog of Military Firearms is a trusted source for militaria fans and a must-have for anyone interested in the weapons that have shaped our world’s history.